President
Adama Barrow has said leaders come and go but the state remains and urged the
religious leaders to continue to pray for peace to prevail in the country.
He
made these remarks during a courtesy call by Banjul Muslim Elders Committee led
by Imam Ratib of Banjul, and Alhajie Cherno Kah.
Speaking
on the relationship with Senegal, President Barrow reassured them of his
commitment to continue to work and consult his counterpart on bilateral
relations to further cement the ties.
On
the importance of religion, the Gambian leader asserted that it was in
recognition of the importance of religion that he appointed an adviser on
religious affairs in the anal of Gambian history. He pledged that his government will work with
religious leaders to promote peace.
The
President thanked Imam Kah and his delegation for calling on him during the
impasse and taking a stand to defend the truth and the country, which he said
increased confidence on their role in society.
He added that it is one of the reasons why in Africa there is believe in
respect for elder.
For
his part, Imam Ratib, Alhajie Cherno Kah said the courtesy call was meant to
renew their commitment to support the President and his government.
He
expressed appreciation about the relationship that exists with Senegal. He requested for the strengthening of the relationship
by maintaining a link with the religious bodies in Senegal.
This,
he argued, will promote peace and unity as well as consult on issues of common
interest such as border closures.
Speaking
earlier, the Chairman of the Committee, Alhajie Alieu Mboge expressed
satisfaction with the governance situation in the Gambia. The visit he said was to maintain a link
between the Community Elders and the President to consult on issues of interest
to Gambians.
Mr
Mboge also briefed the meeting on the goal of the establishment of the Banjul
Muslim Elders Committee 117 years ago, to promote religion and issues of
concern to the Muslims in Banjul.
He
added that the committee continues to work in partnership with the Supreme
Islamic Council. The creation of a Religious Adviser position under the Office
of the President was also appreciated.
Banjul
Muslim Elders Committee also reported on their annual activities during the
month of Ramadan and other planned activities.
They
informed the President that the Committee is now expanded to include the Larso
Wharf mosque committee elders.
Imam
Foday Kabba Dumbuya speaking on behalf of his community elders expressed
solidarity with the Banjul Muslim Elders Committee and that they have
manifested it by working together on their planned Ramadan programmes and
pledged to continue working together.
The
delegation was accompanied to State House by Religious Affairs Adviser to the
President, Honourable Dembo Bojang.
Office
of the President
